July 1, 2008

Quick Craft

In need of a mouse pad for my room-to-room roving laptop I made a quick no-sew version from fabric and cork. I thought I'd share the process in a first ever Funky & Delightful tutorial.

Trace and cut the desired shape from a piece of cork. My mouse pad is an 8” circle.

Using the piece of cork as a template, trace the shape onto the paper backed side of double-sided fusible web. I used Heat ‘n’ Bond Ultra.

With fabric right side facing down and fusible web paper side up, fuse the web to the fabric following the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Cut the shape from the fused fabric.

Remove the paper backing and position the fabric right side up on the cork.

Fuse the fabric to the cork according to the manufacturer's instructions. Place the finished piece under a stack of books for a few minutes as the glue cools to prevent curling and ensure a good bond.

Get to clicking. You now have a custom mouse pad.

The same idea could easily be applied to cork backed coasters. Or elevate the idea into functional art. Pop cork backed fabric into flea market frames spray painted to coordinate with your fabric. Hang en masse anywhere you need to pin up notes, pieces of inspiration, or add a shot of color.